Identify Mixed Breed Dogs by DNA
Genetic Tests Available to Detect Your Mutt's Composition
Identifying mixed breed dogs has never been easy or accurate but science is conquering new frontiers in canine genetics. Up until very recently, owners of those adorable mutts had to rely on educated guesses if they wanted to know their dog’s lineage. Now, with genetic technology, there are two tests available that can reveal, through DNA, the mystery dogs in your mutt’s heritage. DNA is the acronym for deoxyribonucleic acid and has been called the blueprint for life.
The Canine Heritage Breed Test, released in March 2007 by a life science company called MetaMorphix, is available to the public for around $75. According to their website, dog owners simply request a kit and then use the brush-tipped swab provided to collect DNA from the epithelial cells inside their dog’s cheek. The kit is mailed back and, in four to six weeks, results are returned in the form of a frame quality Certificate of DNA Breed Analysis. One drawback of the test is that it can certify only 38 of the most common breeds. If your dog’s composition does not fall within those outlined breeds, the test may show breeds from earlier in your dog’s ancestry. MetaMorphix plans to release an advanced version of the Canine Heritage Breed Test in the fall of 2007. It will detect 116 breeds and likely carry a higher price tag.
The Wisdom Panel TM MX Mixed Breed Analysis Test is scheduled for release in September 2007 by Mars Veterinary. According to their website, the test can detect over 130 AKC recognized breeds with 98% accuracy. It will be available through veterinarians only and requires a blood sample which can be taken during a routine visit. Pricing is determined by the veterinarian and expected be over a hundred dollars.
Many enthusiastic dog owners are willing to shell out the bucks for curiosity reasons alone but the genetic tests have significance in health, training, and grooming issues as well. Results provide veterinarians with valuable insight concerning health issues and a predisposition to certain diseases. Knowledge of a mixed breed dog’s lineage can shed light on breed-typical behaviors and aid in training.
Identification of breed composition in shelter dogs could be advantageous in matching the right dog with the right home. Knowing potential health problems and behavior issues up front could make for smoother placements. However, costs may prove inhibitive for shelters operating on a shoestring budget.
Perhaps, in time, genetic testing will become as common place and economically feasible as rabies vaccinations and be included in mixed breed dogs’ routine vetting. Until then, mongrel owners can continue to have fun guessing at the bloodlines flowing through their dog’s veins.
One thing’s for sure; your dog doesn’t care who he is or who you are. He loves you just the same.
May 2008 Update
A new product is now available called Canine Heritage XL. After a few more breeds are finalized, MMI Genomics expects this product, which costs about $120, to identify around 120 breeds.
Related Reading:
Advantages of Mixed Breed Dogs
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